Dry Eye is actually a collection of symptoms that stems from an imbalance in the quantity or quality of lubrication tears. These symptoms include dry, red, gritty, and even watery eyes. Often, dry eye sufferers report the feeling of something foreign within the eye, eye strain, and that eyes feel better closed. Dry eye patients generally are uncomfortable with their contact lenses.

As odd as it sounds, many dry eye sufferers can experience ‘wet eyes' because the tear glands overcompensate due to irritation. 

The moisture level on the eye is maintained by the balance of tear production and tear loss through drainage and evaporation. When this balance is not sustained, dry spots appear on the surface of the eye and cause irritation. A lack of sufficient lubrication tears can frequently cause or worsen eye allergy symptoms.  

Dr. Teles evaluates the tear film over the eye as a part of the routine comprehensive examination. When issues are apparent, Dr. Teles is able to use video-photography to show and explain the problem to the patient. Through a detailed evaluation of the tear components Dr. Teles is able to treat most dry eye condition successfully.

There are several therapies available to treat dry eye ranging from simple over the counter drops to prescription drops or even punctal occlusion. Most health insurance companies cover treatment and office visits for dry eye.

Treatment of dry eye can make a considerable difference in contact lens comfort and length of wear. Patients considering LASIK because they have dry eye issues with contacts should be throughly evaluated and before their LASIK procecure. One of the main side effects of LASIK is dry eye!

Call Dr. Teles at 410-768-0202 for a free dry eye screening consultation.